*Sarah Peterson, a resident of Quakertown, Connecticut, had always struggled with portion control. The news of major food companies engaging in 'shrinkflation' – reducing product sizes while keeping prices the same – struck a chord with her. It reminded her of the countless times she had told herself, 'just one more bite,' only to finish an entire bag of chips or a pint of ice cream.

This news article triggered Sarah because it brought back memories of her childhood, when her parents would constantly berate her for overeating. 'You're going to end up as big as a house,' her father would say, leaving a lasting impact on her self-esteem and relationship with food.

Determined to break the cycle, Sarah and her partner, *John, decided to enroll in the Stepping Into Action program. Through the program's online resources and support system, they learned practical strategies for managing portion sizes and developed a healthier relationship with food.

'It wasn't easy, but the program helped us recognize our triggers and develop coping mechanisms,' Sarah shared. 'We learned to savor every bite and appreciate the nourishment food provides, rather than using it as a means to fill an emotional void.'

Experts in the field of addiction and recovery applauded the couple's decision to seek professional help. 'Food addiction is a real and serious issue,' stated Dr. *Emily Thompson, a leading psychologist. 'Programs like Stepping Into Action provide a comprehensive approach to addressing the underlying emotional and psychological factors that contribute to unhealthy eating habits.'

However, not everyone agreed with the idea of treating overeating as an addiction. Some nutritionists argued that the focus should be on developing a balanced and sustainable relationship with food, rather than labeling it as an addiction. 'We need to be careful not to pathologize normal human behaviors,' cautioned *Dr. Michael Johnson, a prominent dietitian. 'Moderation and mindful eating practices can be more effective than treating food as an addictive substance.'

Despite the controversy, Sarah and John found solace in the support they received through the online program. 'It was a lifeline for us,' Sarah reflected. 'Finding resources and a community that understood our struggles made all the difference. It was difficult to find in-person support in our area, so the online program was a blessing.'

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